The Conservatives have sought to rebrand themselves as a party that welcomes homosexuals following a summit of over 100 representatives from gay and lesbian groups.

Shadow minister for young people and Tory deputy chairman Charles Hendry chaired the "Supporting young gay men and lesbians – the way ahead" meeting.

Conservative public services spokesman Tim Yeo and London mayoral candidate Steve Norris, two of the Tories leading "modernisers", also addressed the event.

Interest groups

Hendry said the meeting - which examined strategies for tackling homophobic bullying, the role of government and the importance of education in promoting a healthier lifestyle - had been "very constructive".

"By dealing with very serious issues affecting young gay people, such as bullying, safety and health, we have shown that this was not a superficial event, but one intended to make sure that we can develop policies based on people’s genuine experiences," he said.

“I recognise that many of those who came were sceptical about the initiative, but I have been very encouraged by the feedback from those attending.

"It was a serious and productive meeting and gave many of those attending the opportunity, for the first time, to tell policy makers at Westminster about the issues that concern them most.”

Speaking ahead of the meeting, Yeo said: "This event will enable us to gain a fuller understanding of the concerns and views of voluntary groups, and the young people they support.

"We will be using the feedback to ensure that our policies reach out fully to the gay community - for too often, the prejudices and abuse that many homosexuals face are simply ignored by politicians," he said.

"It’s now time this changed, and I am happy to help make that change happen."